Texas' top 10 cities for women in the workforce

Texas, known for its thriving industries, diverse economy, and fast-growing metro areas, offers a dynamic labor market full of opportunities for women. With sectors ranging from energy and technology to education and healthcare, the Lone Star State presents a wide range of pathways for professional growth and success.

Despite facing challenges such as income inequality and access to affordable childcare, many cities in Texas are leading the way in creating supportive environments where women in the workforce can thrive. Today, more women are stepping into leadership roles, pursuing higher education, and advocating for workplace equality across Texas.

Following national trends—and a significant rebound after the “women’s recession” brought on by COVID-19—Texas women have returned to work in force. In fact, labor force participation for women continues to climb, reaching near-record levels as of mid-2023.

Key factors, such as educational attainment, the rise in women’s salaries, narrowing wage gaps, and greater representation in management positions, are helping reshape the employment landscape in the state. And some Texas metro areas are standing out more than others.

Honoring Women’s History Month in March, Checkr set out to analyze the US Census Bureau data to identify the top ten cities in Texas for women in the workforce.

The key metrics analyzed include:

Each of these metrics was weighted appropriately and scaled to develop a final ranking of the cities where women are best positioned for success.

Texas businesses, government leaders, and workforce developers alike can benefit from understanding which Texas cities are excelling in building gender equity—and why.

Now, let’s get into the details about the top cities in Texas for working women. 

Ranked number one overall, Brownsville stands out for its rapid growth in workforce participation among women. The city also showed strong gains in women's median income and a noticeable narrowing of the wage gap. Its affordability and steady job market make it an appealing hub for working women seeking advancement.

Austin lands in second place, thanks to its booming tech industry, vibrant startup culture, and progressive workplace policies. Women in Austin benefit from growth in management positions and a continued increase in labor force participation.

Dallas-Fort Worth claims the third spot due to robust job creation, expanding industries, and an above-average reduction in the gender wage gap. The metroplex also ranks highly among Texas cities for women in leadership roles.

Killeen continues to impress with its steady increase in women entering the workforce and notable improvements in women’s unemployment rates. It is also emerging as a regional leader in female participation in management, helping it secure the fourth overall spot.

San Antonio ranks number five for its consistent performance across all key metrics. The city boasts growing representation of women in leadership and a rapidly improving wage landscape for female professionals.

With a strong showing in workforce participation and a marked drop in the unemployment rate for women, McAllen is quickly gaining recognition. It ranks sixth overall for creating access to economic opportunity for women in South Texas.

Corpus Christi has demonstrated solid performance in workforce growth and wage equality. The area is also making gains in placing women in higher-income roles providing great opportunities for women in the workforce.

El Paso continues to invest in workforce development, particularly for women. Its improvements in wage equity and access to leadership roles earn it a place in the top ten.

Despite being Texas’ largest metro area, Houston ranks ninth, mainly due to slower progress in wage gap reduction. However, its massive job market and concentration of Fortune 500 companies still provide significant opportunities for career advancement.

Rounding out the top ten is Beaumont. The city posted notable improvements in median income for women and job growth, though challenges remain in closing the wage gap and boosting female leadership numbers.

This data-driven analysis shows that Texas cities are making meaningful progress toward gender equality in employment. While there is still work to be done, many metro areas are building a future where women have equitable access to opportunity, income, and leadership.

Key takeaways for businesses include the importance of promoting pay equity, offering flexible work options, and developing women for leadership roles. These strategies not only create a more inclusive environment but also drive better organizational outcomes and enhance talent retention.

As Texas continues to grow and diversify its economy, embracing policies that empower women in the workforce will be essential for long-term prosperity.

For more information on Checkr’s research click this link to be directed to their website or to request graphics for this study, please contact press@checkr.com.